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Centara unveils The Centara Collection; rebrands Centara Grand Maldives as Machchafushi Island Resort & Spa

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Centara Hotels & Resorts, Thailand’s leading hotel operator, has announced the launch of The Centara Collection, a curated portfolio of one-of-a-kind properties that celebrate individuality, authenticity and creativity, to immerse guests in the spirit of their destinations.

Formerly known as the Centara Boutique Collection, the portfolio has been transformed and elevated to a new level of distinction. The Centara Collection is committed to “Inspiring Individuality”, and with a refreshed visual identity, a refined curation of member hotels, and an emphasis on the quality and uniqueness of every property, it is set to appeal greatly to travellers with a passion for exploration who seek bespoke experiences which are as unique as they are.

Each member of The Centara Collection will be defined and united by distinguishing features and offerings including distinctive design (whether through eye-catching interiors, innovative architecture or artistic expression), immersive local experiences that reflect the culture and heritage of their locale, and curated creativity. These high-end hotels and resorts will strive to enhance their guests’ lifestyles and connect them with their destinations.

The essence of The Centara Collection is to provide travellers with a true sense of place, which reflects the essence of its neighbourhood, whether it is an intriguing urban district, a culture-rich rural retreat, or an idyllic natural environment.

Centara can now reveal that the acclaimed Centara Grand Island Resort & Spa Maldives will be renamed as Machchafushi Island Resort & Spa Maldives, as it becomes the first international member of The Centara Collection. Blending heartfelt Thai-Maldivian hospitality with best-in-class facilities, including overwater and beachfront villas, this award-winning resort offers experiential stays with a deep connection to nature, including one of the Maldives’ finest house reefs, diving experiences, and aquatic adventures to uncover the underwater treasures of the Indian Ocean. The exclusivity and uniqueness of this natural wonder, makes it the perfect fit for this experiential new brand collection.

This world-class resort is joined in The Centara Collection by two exceptional Thai hotels. The celebrated Roukh Kiri Khao Yai is nestled amid the rolling hills of Northeast Thailand, overlooking the UNESCO World Heritage-listed rainforest of Khao Yai National Park. It features just 13 rustic, barn-inspired villas with private outdoor bathtubs or plunge pools, sweeping mountain vistas, and organic gardens. Showcasing the tropical beauty of Southern Thailand, Varivana Resort Koh Phangan is the place where the mountains meet the sea. The resort offers an eye-catching island retreat with 39 stylish rooms, spacious private balconies and a spectacular 28-metre rooftop saltwater infinity pool.

Looking ahead, Centara is seeking opportunities to expand The Centara Collection with more original properties in extraordinary locations, both in Thailand and around the world, and further exciting announcements can be expected in the near future.

“We are delighted to reveal The Centara Collection, our curated compilation of hotels and resorts that are unified by the fact that they are all completely unique. At Centara, we understand that today’s discerning travellers not only want to visit a destination – they want to experience it. By blending design, creativity and authenticity, all underpinned by our group’s warm, Thai hospitality, we aim to inspire every guest to uncover the spirit of their locale,” said Ron Cusiter, Executive Vice President – Commercial, Centara Hotels & Resorts.

Centara offers six leading brands across all sectors of the market, from affordable lifestyle to luxury. The launch of The Centara Collection marks the latest phase of the group’s brand enhancement strategy, in recognition of the need to continuously evolve product offerings and signature experiences to remain relevant, and to consolidate its position as the pre-eminent Thai hospitality group.

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‘Around the World in Wonder’ brings culture, cuisine, celebration to Amilla Maldives

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The festive season is in full swing at Amilla Maldives, where the island has come alive with Around the World in Wonder, a journey through global cultures, flavours and traditions. Inspired by Jules Verne’s Around the World in 80 Days, the celebration runs from 20 December 2025 to 6 January 2026, inviting guests to explore the world without leaving the island.

A meaningful early highlight of the programme was Amilla’s 11th anniversary on 21 December, marked by a festive cocktail and cake-cutting ceremony, followed by a Maldivian Night with bodu beru performances. The celebrations continued with the Tree Lighting Ceremony, which formed the glowing centrepiece of an Italian-themed Masquerade Ball. The evening unfolded with Viennese waltz performances and a fire show, while carolers filled the air with gentle festive melodies.

Christmas Eve turned its focus to France, featuring the lively Dance of the Can-Can, a festive buffet and aerial hoop performances. On Christmas Day, Argentina took centre stage as Santa arrived by yacht and rolled into the festive train buggy, leading a joyful island parade and gift-giving moments. The day continued with a festive brunch celebrating flavour, fun and festive cheer.

Festivities will build towards New Year’s Eve, with the Around the World in a Cocktail party and Global Carnival Event, including live performances from the Hamilton Band, bongo beats, soaring saxophone, acrobats and fire dancers, culminating in a countdown to 2026 under the Maldivian night sky.

Every detail has been thoughtfully prepared by the Amilla Maldives team, allowing guests to relax, explore and celebrate in a setting shaped by nature, warmth and wonder.

Click here to explore the full festive programme at Amilla Maldives. For more information about Amilla Maldives, please visit www.amilla.com.

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Christmas at Fushifaru Maldives begins with tree lighting, Boduberu, kids’ activities

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Fushifaru Maldives welcomed the Christmas season in grand style, beginning with a mesmerising tree lighting ceremony on 20 December set against the serene sunset at Thundi, accompanied by live music and tantalising canapés to mark the start of the celebrations. The holiday season runs from 20 December to 6 January, offering a variety of family-friendly activities, including cupcake decorating, pool parties, Boduberu classes, sandcastle making, and tennis classes for the little ones.

On Christmas Eve, 24 December, guests enjoyed a truly unforgettable celebration. The evening began with Santa’s arrival and a sunset aperitif with kids’ gift-giving, followed by a Christmas Gala Dinner featuring an extensive selection of international cuisines. Seafood lovers delighted in a live grilled station featuring jumbo prawns, lobsters, fishes, clams, octopus, and many more, all beautifully displayed on the Maldivian Dhoni boat, alongside a dedicated Japanese corner offering fresh sashimi, oysters, and other delicacies.

For dessert, the chefs presented a heavenly assortment including mousses, crème brûlée, tiramisu, macarons, meringues, soufflés, and many more, ensuring every guest indulged in a sweet finale. The night culminated in a vibrant disco by DJ Elton and a breathtaking performance by Anastasia Gordienko, a talented hula hoops, LED, and aerial gymnastics performer, leaving guests in awe and perfectly closing the Christmas Eve celebration.

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Villa Nautica hosts Bollywood filmmaker Farah Khan for holiday stay

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Bollywood filmmaker and celebrated choreographer Farah Khan marked the festive season with a holiday escape to the Maldives, staying at Villa Nautica and experiencing the island’s signature mix of warmth, privacy, and ocean-side celebration.

A defining creative force in Indian entertainment, Farah Khan has shaped some of Hindi cinema’s most recognisable on-screen moments, from iconic dance sequences to blockbuster storytelling. Widely regarded as one of Bollywood’s most influential choreographers, she has worked across more than 80 films and received major recognition for her craft, including India’s National Film Award for Best Choreography and multiple Filmfare Awards.

Farah’s impact extends beyond choreography. As a director, she is known for beloved mainstream hits including Main Hoon Na, Om Shanti Om, and Happy New Year, bringing together spectacle, humour, and heart with a style that audiences instantly connect with. She is also a familiar face to viewers through television and entertainment formats, where her sharp wit and straightforward personality have made her a standout on screen.

Villa Nautica is located on Lankanfinolhu Island in the North Malé Atoll, just 20 minutes by speedboat from Velana International Airport, making it an easy choice for travellers planning a festive season getaway in the Maldives. The resort is known for its yacht-life inspired spirit, shimmering lagoons, and a vibrant range of ocean experiences, including diving and watersports, paired with relaxed island luxury for all-day unwinding.

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